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The New York Knicks found their spark in the 2020-21 NBA season and delivered impressively unexpected performances. Although they had a commendable 41-31 run in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks will look to bolster their squad to be more competitive in the new season.
Playoffs qualification in itself was an achievement, one that the New York Knicks should relish, as they hadn't made the postseason for seven years. Though they were eliminated in the 2021 NBA playoffs in the first round by the Atlanta Hawks, the Knicks showed progress towards championship contention.
Tom Thibodeau successfully put together a unit that played together and protected the basket. But a lot more work needs to be done to boost production in offense.
Looking ahead to the 2021-22 NBA season, the New York Knicks front office needs to make similar moves that inspired their resurgence in the 2020-21 campaign. The introduction of Derrick Rose was a positive, as the team got much better with him on the court.
On that note, here are the top three assets available to the New York Knicks to bolster their squad during the 2021 NBA off-season.
#3 Nerlens Noel
Nerlens Noel is an exceptional defender but is not of much help in offense. He averaged a career-high 2.2 blocks but managed 2.1 points in 64 games.
The New York Knicks were the third-best team in the league in defensive rating this season, much of which was due to Noel's efforts. He stepped up when Mitchell Robinson was sidelined due to injuries and delivered the goods for the Knicks in defense. However, he was not a major contributor in offense.
Noel will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, but the New York Knicks could re-sign and use him in a sign-and-trade package to land an elite center. Myles Turner would be a worthy replacement, as he is productive at both ends of the court.
The New York Knicks have a big decision to make, as they have to factor in Mitchell Robinson's return as well. Noel is far too valuable to let go in free agency, which is why the Knicks ought to explore sign-and-trade options to secure an effective defender and scorer.
#2 RJ Barrett
The New York Knicks have exceptional young talent in RJ Barrett, and there have been conversations regarding the front office building a team around him and Julius Randle. While many think Barrett should be untouchable, some believe he could be an integral piece in landing an elite guard like Damian Lillard.
Barrett has shown improvement across all areas of his game, which makes him a valuable asset for the New York Knicks. He was the second-best scorer for the Knicks this season, averaging 17.6 points and three assists.
Rumors suggest that the New York Knicks are willing to give up future picks and Barrett in a blockbuster deal to land Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard is one of the best guards in the NBA right now, so landing him would be a big deal for the Knicks.
Barrett's improvement is one that the New York Knicks should see through, as the 20-year-old is registering unreal numbers. But if the team is willing to shake things up in a big way, he could be valuable in trading for a superstar who would help the team win more often.
#1 Julius Randle
Many would argue that moving Julius Randle this off-season should not even be considered. However, this might be the best time for the New York Knicks to get the most value out of him, as there might be a decrease in his stats in the 2021-22 season.
Randle is most effective when he's the primary ball-handler, something that was the case in the 2020-21 season. But if the New York Knicks land a top-notch point guard, Randle's production will likely see a decline, as he will not have the control he once enjoyed.
The impact Randle had on the New York Knicks last season cannot be denied. Although he underwhelmed during the playoffs, his regular-season exploits earned him the NBA Most Improved Player award.
But now would be the time to make a smart move that would build on the momentum that has been established. Understandably, there will be an uproar if Randle does not return with the New York Knicks for the 2021-22 season. However, trading him would allow the Knicks to land another All-Star-caliber player who could play alongside other superstars.
Guess the Lakers players!
